Today, 30 January 2012 is Ratha Saptami, Surya Jayanti, Vidhan Saptami, Achala Saptami, Saur Saptami or Maghi Saptami. It is the birthday of Surya Bhagavan, who is considered as ‘Prathyaksha Narayana’ (the God whom we can see and worship directly). Ratha Saptami is celebrated as Ardha Brahmotsavam in Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Swamy.
Devotees can have ‘Nijarupa Darshanam’ of Sura Narayana Swamy Arasavalli Surya Bhagavan Temple in Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh. ‘Ksheerabhishekam’ (Abhishekam of Surya Narayana swamy with milk) is another important ritual performed in the temple on Ratha Saptami. Devotees will have Nijaroopa darshanam of Sri Surya Narayana from the midnight to 6 AM on Ratha Saptami day.
Ratha Saptami Vrat Katha, Story of Rathsaptami